Zebra, Mkuze Game Reserve

Mkuze Game Reserve (also spelled Mkhuze) is a mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, forest and savannah. It’s home to wild dog, black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, nyala, blue wildebeest, warthog, hippo, impala, kudu, hyena, suni, and leopard. More than 400 species of birds have been recorded at Mkuze. It has four game viewing hides and two for viewing birds. One hundred kilometers of road traverse the forty thousand hectare park. Highlights include the Fig Forest Guided Walking Trail and birding at Nsumo Pan. Rangers conduct day walks and night drives. Self-drive safaris are permitted in the park.

Mkuze Game Reserve is situated in northern KwaZulu Natal and is part of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The game reserve is located 450km (280 miles) east of Johannesburg and 335km (208 miles) north of Durban. The nearest airport is in Richards Bay, a 2.5-hour drive. The airport in Mkuze receives charter flights only. There is no public transport to Mkuze. A car is needed to reach the park. Family Travel Tips: The roads to the reserve are well signposted.

The best time to go on safari depends on what you want to see and the number of vehicles you want to share your sightings with. Game viewing is best from May to September. Birders are rewarded with special sightings from December through February. The peak season - December, January, April and July – coincides with South African school holidays. The best time for game drives is early morning and late afternoon. Here’s a bit about the weather: Summers are hot and humid. Winters are mild and dry. The average daytime high is 34°C (93°F) from December through March and 25°C (77°F) in June and July. The nighttime lows are significantly cooler than the daytime high throughout the year. The area receives 600-800 mm of rainfall each year, most of which falls between November and April. Family Travel Tips: Traveling in winter? Early morning game drives can be quite nippy. Pack a hat, jacket and gloves. Plan to dress in layers. Visiting in the peak season? Advance booking is highly recommended.

Malaria, sunburn and wild animals are the principal hazards at this game park. Consult your physician and consider malaria precaution. Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellent with DEET, wear trousers and long-sleeved shirts between dusk and dawn, and sleep under a treated mosquito net or in a screened or air conditioned room. Safeguard against the southern sun. Wear sunglasses and a hat with a brim. Apply high factor sunscreen to all exposed areas. View wildlife at a safe distance. Talk to kids about animal safety. Follow the rules set out by your guide.

An entry fee is charged to all visitors. A reduced rate is available for seniors and children aged 4-12. Children under 3 years of age are free of charge. A separate fee is charged for accommodation, game drives and guided walks.